Srimali Bania in India
shree-MAH-lee BAHN-yah

Bania are among the wealthiest people in India and even the world. A Srimali Bania might be the proud owner of a giant business, a small one, or he might be working in a bank. He might even own the bank. Others work in government ministries or as lawyers, judges, teachers, scholars, stockbrokers or engineers. They are often resented by other castes because they lend much needed money at high interest rates. A pre-literate farmer might take a loan from a Bania only to find that a high percentage of his harvest will be taken away as interest. Customers often must put their farms or their gold up for collateral on loans. The Srimali Bania may need to hear the gospel from someone who also has a business background.

Ministry Obstacles
There are few if any Christians in their community and they live in a place where Hinduism is unchallenged.

Scripture Focus
"This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success."  Joshua 1:8

Scripture Prayer
Pray that many from this people group will not only study but apply what God teaches through His word.

Prayer Focus
Pray that the veil of deception would be lifted from the eyes of the Srimali Banias and that they would see that the only true wealth is the spiritual riches gained through a loving relationship with Jesus Christ. Pray that Christ's disciples would be called to work among them and share Christ in a culturally relevant way. Pray for loving Bania disciples to make more disciples.

Presented by Joshua Project
www.joshuaproject.net